One of the most beautiful car shows - Chantilly Arts Et Elegance

Throwback to our visit to the Chantilly Arts Et Elegance in 2019

Held bi-annually by classic car event organisers Peter Auto, the Chantilly Arts Et Elegance is one of the world’s premier concours events. With a stunning chateau as a backdrop, a visit seemed like a good excuse for a European road trip to see some world class cars. 

As we headed in, the gothic towers of the chateau in the distance, it was already blisteringly hot, and it was only 9am. Even for an Aussie, my memory vividly recalls how much the heat at Chantilly was heading towards the uncomfortable scale of things - definitely not helped by wearing long trousers and a jacket. 

Chateau Chantilly was also beautiful as expected. With an impressive collection of cars sprawled out across its gardens, ranging from a handful of vintage Bentley’s celebrating the marques 100th anniversary, to Formula One cars, Le Mans legends and the latest hypercars, there was something for everyone. 

Although the central ‘parade ring’ and accompanying fashion show was a bit of a strange concept for someone used to watching cars driven in anger at race tracks, the lifestyle focus was a refreshing change of pace and opened up a completely different way to appreciate cars. Without a doubt, it gave more of a chance to appreciate cars from a purely aesthetic perspective. 

All in all, Chantilly Art Et Elegance was a great reason to travel over the channel and enjoy a chilled weekend catching up with many racing friends but at a more relaxed pace. With some of the world’s most carefully looked after cars and an amazing backdrop, it was as picturesque as car shows get.